Fritz Newton is turning five, and he’s sure five will feel different than four. But it doesn’t. Despite new sneakers, birthday pancakes, and being the birthday king at school, he still “can’t whistle, snap his fingers … or do the monkey bars two at a time.” A perfectly paced picture book reveals that change can be subtle, and Fritz discovers that what he feels inside is where the difference matters most. Blithe pen-and-ink and watercolor illustrations accompany the fine narrative. (Ages 4–6)

What is turning five supposed to feel like, anyway? A charming look at growing older, from a child’s point of view.

Fritz can’t wait to turn five! His birthday starts off well when he eats all five of his birthday pancakes and gets brand-new sneakers that fit perfectly. But when he peeks in the mirror, everything looks the same. And his teeth won’t wiggle — not a single one. Even after he gets to wear the birthday crown and everyone sings to him at school, five still feels an awful lot like four did. Will Fritz ever feel five? In this sweet picture book that’s perfect for children of any age, Bethanie Deeney Murguia explores how it feels to grow up.